Housing minister sees North Toryglen transformation first hand

north toryglen 1Housing minister Kevin Stewart saw for himself yesterday how a Glasgow community has been transformed.

The first phase of North Toryglen has seen 100 new, spacious energy-efficient homes for GHA already complete, along with 55 for private sale by Cruden Homes.

Mr Stewart joined GHA Board member Kate Willis, local elected members, GHA tenants and staff as well as representatives from contractors Cruden, Glasgow City Council and the Scottish Government to meet some of the new tenants and see how the area has changed.

North Toryglen is one of eight areas in Glasgow earmarked as a priority for regeneration by Transforming Communities: Glasgow (TC:G), a partnership between Glasgow City Council, the Scottish Government and GHA.

A 120-bed care home for older people operated by Glasgow City Council has also been built, along with a new play park and improved facilities at a community centre.

GHA tenant Helen McBride, who has lived in the area for 39 years, moved into her new two-bedroom home in Crossbank Crescent at the end of last year.

Helen, 55, said: “My new home is perfect. It’s lovely and warm and I’m paying less on my bills – and it’s great having a back garden too.

“My mobility is restricted and there are adaptations, including a walk-in shower. It’s all on one level too, so it’s ideal for me.

“I’ve always loved living in North Toryglen. I feel very comfortable that I know my neighbours already. It’s a real close-knit community and the homes have made a real difference to the whole area.”

Housing minister Kevin Stewart, joined GHA board member Kate Willis (left) and tenant Helen McBride to see the new houses.
Housing minister Kevin Stewart, joined GHA board member Kate Willis (left) and tenant Helen McBride to see the new houses.

Housing minister Kevin Stewart said: “The completion of this project is a huge milestone in the regeneration of North Toryglen.

“I am pleased the Scottish Government was able to provide £4.6 million of grant funding for this project. The 100 affordable, high-quality new homes will make a real difference to the local community.

“We have committed to deliver 50,000 more affordable homes over the next five years, backed up with investment of more than £3 billion. Projects such as this one today mark another step on road to delivering that pledge.”

The £9.9m GHA development, built by contractors Cruden, is a mix of 66 houses and 34 flats, with 10 of the homes designed to wheelchair standard.

GHA Board member Kate Willis, who is also chair of GHA’s south area committee, said: “I’m delighted Helen is enjoying life in her new home.

“The homes are modern, spacious and energy-efficient, meaning tenants will save money on their bills too.

“GHA has worked closely with local residents and our partners in North Toryglen and it’s great to see the area transformed.”

The development in North Toryglen won ‘Best Affordable Housing Development’ at the Herald Property Awards last week.

Allan Callaghan, managing director for Cruden Homes West, said: “Cruden is delighted to have worked with GHA to design and construct a mixture of social houses for rent and affordable private housing in North Toryglen.

“These high-quality, energy efficient and eco-friendly homes will deliver many benefits, including reduced fuel bills for residents.

“We’re pleased to be playing our part in transforming the area into a modern and vibrant new community.”

GHA is currently demolishing two blocks at 99 and 101 Prospecthill Circus using a long-reach machine.

The demolition of the two remaining blocks should be complete by Christmas, with the site cleared by early 2017.

Future regeneration plans for North Toryglen include 49 homes for private sale and new shop units.

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